Yep, check post-boil before you add the yeast, and again when fermentation is finished and use the formula given above by beergolf, or use an online ABV calculator. The temp. of the sample depends on what your hydrometer is calibrated for, usually 60 deg. or 68 deg.
I've done a few of the Brewer's Best kits and they have all turned out pretty good with no problems. The IPA kit is probably my favorite. I got most of my kits from my LHBS so the ingredients and yeast were fairly fresh.
I think what the instructions mean is after you add all of your malt extract, draw off 24 oz. of wort to a separate pot and boil the wort down to almost a syrup then add it back to the main boil kettle. I've only heard of this technique but have never tried it. Supposed to add a little more...
I've been using a PET carboy for almost a year now and I love it! Cleaning is also super simple. It will soak clean and if you have any stubborn spots just stuff a small rag in it with a little liquid and shake the carboy lightly to "scrub" the spot with the rag. No odd flavors or odors in the...
I started out with the NB brew and share kit in February and it is a good kit to start out with but it does have some drawbacks. No hydrometer, had to buy separately. Replaced the bottling wand with a spring loaded bottling wand, the included gravity fed wand would not stop leaking. The...
Decided to try my hand at brewing an altbier yesterday. Brewers Best extract kit. Hopefully the next brew I will get to play with real grain, just got a brewing bag not too long ago.
Hydrometer is good. Thanks for the link jtratcliff, great info on the 1.020 issue. Just going to follow bluehouse's advice and relax and enjoy. If it sucks I can always try again!
Well, after a week of keeping the beer at 72 degrees and rousing the yeast back into suspension a little, checked the gravity and got 1.017. Going to take another reading Friday and if it's the same.....in the bottles it goes. Probably just going to just chalk this batch up to experience and...
Thanks Curtiss and ncbrewer. I'm in the Madison Heights area, not far from Berkley. Will definitely check Adventures in Homebrewing when I get a chance.
Just Wanted to say hello to everyone and say what a great place this is to learn about the hobby. Stumbled upon this site while researching homebrewing. After lurking for a few weeks just had to join the community here. Just started brewing last month with a Northern Brewer kit, and loving it...